Review

Empowering the Sports Scientist with Artificial Intelligence in

Training, Performance, and Health Management
Nuno Mateus 1,2,3, * , Eduardo Abade 1,2,4 , Diogo Coutinho 1,3 , Miguel-Ángel Gómez 5 , Carlos Lago Peñas 6
and Jaime Sampaio 1,2

1 Research Center in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development, CIDESD, CreativeLab
Research Community, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; [email protected] (E.A.);
[email protected] (D.C.); [email protected] (J.S.)
2 Department of Sports Science, Exercise and Health, School of Life Sciences and Environment, University of
Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
3 Department of Sports Sciences and Physical Education, University of Maia, 4475-690 Maia, Portugal
4 Portugal Football School, Portuguese Football Federation, 1495-433 Oeiras, Portugal
5 Facultad de Ciencias de la Actividad Física y del Deporte, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid,
Spain; [email protected]
6 Faculty of Education and Sport Sciences, Universidad de Vigo, 36004 Vigo, Spain;
[email protected]
* Correspondence: [email protected]

Abstract: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the field of sports science by providing
unprecedented insights and tools that enhance training, performance, and health manage-
ment. This work examines how AI is advancing the role of sports scientists, particularly in
team sports environments, by improving training load management, sports performance,
and player well-being. It explores key dimensions such as load optimization, injury preven-
tion and return-to-play, sports performance, talent identification and scouting, off-training
behavior, sleep quality, and menstrual cycle management. Practical examples illustrate how
AI applications have significantly advanced each area and how they support and enhance
the effectiveness of sports scientists. This manuscript also underscores the importance
of ensuring that AI technologies are context-specific and communicated transparently.
Additionally, it calls for academic institutions to update their curriculums with AI-focused
Academic Editor: Wataru Sato education, preparing future sports professionals to fully harness its potential. Finally, the
Received: 16 November 2024
manuscript addresses future challenges, such as the unpredictable nature of team sports,
Revised: 17 December 2024 emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, including clear communication
Accepted: 27 December 2024 and mutual understanding between sports scientists and AI experts, and the critical balance
Published: 29 December 2024 between AI-driven insights and human expertise.
Citation: Mateus, N.; Abade, E.;
Coutinho, D.; Gómez, M.-Á.; Peñas, Keywords: data science; sports science; sensors; team sports; technology
C.L.; Sampaio, J. Empowering the
Sports Scientist with Artificial
Intelligence in Training, Performance,
and Health Management. Sensors 2025,
1. Introduction
25, 139. https://doi.org/10.3390/
s25010139 The world of sports is undergoing a rapid digital transformation, driven by advance-
ments in technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI) [1–3]. This shift is revolutioniz-
Copyright: © 2024 by the authors.
Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.
ing how sports are analyzed, interpreted, and optimized across various dimensions [2,4–6].
This article is an open access article AI enables computer systems to undertake tasks traditionally requiring human intelligence,
distributed under the terms and such as speech recognition, decision-making, and pattern recognition, with greater effi-
conditions of the Creative Commons ciency. Moreover, it enables supports applications like natural language processing, video
Attribution (CC BY) license
analysis, and problem-solving [1,7].
(https://creativecommons.org/
licenses/by/4.0/).

Sensors 2025, 25, 139 https://doi.org/10.3390/s25010139

Sensors 2025, 25, 139 2 of 12

While AI has existed since the mid-20th century [8,9], recent breakthroughs, such
as Generative Pretrained Transformers (GPTs), have significantly improved its abil-
ity to process vast datasets, identify patterns, and autonomously enhance system
performance [6,10]. At present, AI integration in sports extends far beyond basic perfor-
mance analytics, encompassing strategic planning, real-time decision-making, and exercise
prescription [10]. The accessibility of AI technology, coupled with wearable trackers and
physiological sensors, has led to a surge in data collection, covering performance, work-
load, wellness, fitness levels, and recovery [11–13]. This wealth of data has the potential to
transform decision-making processes in sports, enabling personalized training programs,
enhanced injury prevention strategies, and improved player performance.
However, the key challenge lies in converting this massive influx of raw data into
actionable insights for optimizing performance [12,14]. Sports scientists now face the task
of accurately analyzing these datasets to provide evidence-based feedback within strict
timeframes [15]. This evolving role demands interdisciplinary knowledge, integrating
sports science, data science, and machine learning into cohesive strategies. Clear commu-
nication, shared goals, and mutual respect for methodologies are essential to successful
collaboration across disciplines. With the support of AI, sports scientists can achieve more
precise load management, injury prevention, and performance optimization [15,16]. Nev-
ertheless, prioritizing key performance metrics and effectively interpreting AI-generated
insights remain significant challenges in this data-driven landscape.
This article explores the transformative role of AI in sports science, with a particular
focus on team sports. It examines how sports scientists can effectively harness AI to opti-
mize training loads, prevent injuries, enhance tactical insights, improve player recruitment,
and manage player health. Through practical examples, this article further illustrates
AI’s potential to improve sports performance, while also addressing the steps that sports
scientists must take to remain at the forefront of this technological revolution.

2. AI in Sports Sciences
AI has emerged as having a pivotal role in reshaping the landscape of sports sciences.
While sports scientists have long operated within the domains of physical activity and
performance analysis, the tools now available, powered by AI, are unprecedented in their
sophistication and capabilities [17]. The application of AI in sports dates to early systems
such as cybernetics in the 1960s, which employed mathematical models to simulate tactical
decisions in basketball. Since then, advancements have rapidly evolved, with notable
milestones like the IBM’s “electronic coach” and the NBA’s “Advanced Scout”, both of
which pioneered data mining for player performance analysis [18].
The use of AI terminology in sports science can frequently lead to misinterpretations.
It is crucial to distinguish between different levels of AI and the tools used. Big data refers to
the process of collecting and organizing vast datasets for analysis. Tools used in this context
range from basic software like Excel to more complex systems like SQL and Pentaho, which
are designed to filter and manage databases [19]. AI, however, takes this further by enabling
intelligent decision-making based on patterns in the data. Machine learning is a branch of AI
that involves algorithms which learn from data to predict outcomes or classify objects [20].
For instance, machine learning models can optimize player performance by detecting
trends that influence injury risk [21]. Deep learning represents a more advanced stage of
AI, employing neural networks with many layers to process complex data automatically.
Deep learning excels at tasks like image and speech recognition, with models such as
those predicting sports injuries becoming highly efficient [22]. Large language models,
such as GPT-3, are a specific application of deep learning. These models are trained on
Sensors 2025, 25, 139 3 of 12

massive datasets to generate human-like text, which could be leveraged in sports to analyze
commentary, enhance fan engagement, and even create training simulations [23].
Currently, AI enables sports scientists to leverage massive datasets that were previ-
ously too complex for manual analysis, transforming data into actionable insights. These
insights cover a variety of applications, including load management, injury prevention,
scouting, and performance optimization. By utilizing tools such as predictive modeling
and real-time analytics, AI empowers sports scientists to offer more personalized feedback
for both coaches and players [14].
Wearable technology has emerged as a cornerstone of modern sports science. The
data generated by these devices allows for real-time monitoring of a player’s physiological
responses, providing a deeper understanding of how external and internal loads affect
performance. When combined with AI, these data can refine training programs, optimize
recovery protocols, and minimize the risk of overtraining and related injuries [21]. In
summary, AI is revolutionizing the sports science landscape. The integration of AI tech-
nologies, from machine learning to large language models, has equipped sports scientists
with tools to analyze vast datasets quickly and effectively, driving sports performance to
new heights. As AI technology continues to evolve, its role in sports science will only
expand, demanding that sports professionals stay abreast of the latest developments.

3. Load Optimization and Injury Prevention

3.1. Traditional Load Management Techniques
In the past, coaches heavily relied on experience and subjective assessments to manage
players’ training loads. This method, though valuable, lacked precision and was time-
consuming, making it particularly inefficient for the extended monitoring of performance
and injury prevention [24]. The introduction of tracking systems and wearable technologies
has significantly improved training load management. These systems now allow for the
detailed monitoring of players’ physical activities and physiological responses, which
help prevent overtraining and reduce injury risk by analyzing both external and internal
loads [12,24–26]. However, transforming these raw data points into actionable insights
remains a challenge for sports scientists. Integrating AI into data analysis allows sports
scientists to provide personalized training programs, optimized injury prevention strategies,
and enhanced overall performance management [14,21].

3.2. AI in Personalized Training and Performance Insights

Tailoring training programs to individual players remains one of the key challenges
in sports. Traditional approaches often fail to accommodate the varying needs of indi-
vidual players, but AI-driven tools are bridging this gap by offering real-time feedback
and predictive insights. These tools leverage machine learning models, such as random
forests and gradient boosting algorithms, which analyze multidimensional data, including
physiological metrics, workload history, and recovery profiles, to predict optimal training
loads. This enables sports scientists to make evidence-based, personalized adjustments to
training programs [27,28], departing from the traditional one-size-fits-all approach. For
example, systems like Athletica (Athletica Inc., Vancouver, BC, Canada) and WIMU SVIVO
(Hudl, Lincoln, NE, USA) allow sports scientists to generate customized training plans
using dynamic load optimization algorithms, providing immediate feedback on a player’s
performance and enabling real-time adjustments to training intensity [29,30]. This precision
improves the effectiveness of training sessions, maximizing each player’s strengths while
minimizing potential injury risks. Moreover, AI supports long-term player development by
tracking progress and identifying performance trends over time. By employing time-series
analysis and unsupervised learning techniques, such as clustering algorithms, AI tools
Sensors 2025, 25, 139 4 of 12

detect subtle performance trends that might otherwise go unnoticed. This allows sports
scientists to gain deeper insights into how a player’s performance evolves across training
cycles, further optimizing individualized training interventions [6,20].

3.3. AI-Driven Injury Prevention and Return to Play

Injuries are an inevitable part of sports. For instance, in men’s professional football,
the incidence of hamstring muscle injuries has increased over the past decade [31]. Notably,
during the 2022–2023 season, the injury costs across the top five men’s European football
leagues surged by nearly 30%, rising from €553.62 million to €704.89 million [32]. This
sharp increase underscores the growing challenge of injury management and the urgent
need for effective prevention strategies.
In this context, AI-driven predictive analytics allow sports scientists to assess injury
risks with unprecedented accuracy by employing advanced machine learning models such
as decision trees, Markov processes, and neural networks [27,33,34]. These models analyze
multidimensional data, such as a player’s psychological state, nutrition, sleep patterns,
injury history, and genetic predispositions, to identify subtle patterns and early warning
signs that traditional methods might overlook. For example, Zone7 (Zone7 Inc., Palo
Alto, CA, USA) uses supervised learning techniques to predict injury risk by analyzing
extensive workload data and historical injury records, offering real-time insights that help
sports scientists prevent injuries and optimize player management [35]. Another example
is the computer vision OpenPose (doxygen 1.9.1), which employs deep learning models
and tracking algorithms to estimate human body movements in real-time 2D and 3D
detection. By using techniques like the greedy bipartite matching algorithm, OpenPose
provides precise and predictive information about positions and movements, allowing
sports scientists to identify biomechanical inefficiencies and improve immediate corrective
actions based on individual characteristics.
The role of sports scientists extends into the return-to-play phase. In this context, vir-
tual reality and augmented reality technologies are increasingly utilized to create interactive
and personalized rehabilitation programs. These systems incorporate AI-powered motion
tracking and biomechanical modeling to make exercises during this stage more engaging
and precise, enhancing adherence and accuracy [3,4]. Innovations such as deep reinforce-
ment learning models, adapted from clinical settings, may further optimize rehabilitation
strategies by analyzing player-specific data to tailor interventions [28].

4. Sports Performance Analysis and Tactical Adjustments

4.1. AI in Sports Performance Analysis
Sports performance analysis has evolved significantly since Charles Reep’s early work
in football data collection in the 1950s, with the introduction of AI leading to dramatic
advancements. One of the key developments in modern sports analysis is the integration
of AI technologies that process vast datasets from wearable devices, video footage, and
match statistics.
Advanced optical tracking systems, such as those employed during the FIFA World
Cup 2022, utilize computer vision and deep learning algorithms to capture and analyze
player and ball movements in real time [36]. These systems provide detailed metrics
on players’ external load, technical and tactical performance, ball movement, and team
behaviors [37]. Technologies like Second Spectrum, used in National Basketball Association
(NBA) games, utilize AI and high-resolution cameras to elevate the accuracy and depth of
sports analytics, offering precise analyses of player actions and game dynamics [38]. An
additional example is the SkillCorner tracking system (SkillCorner, Paris, France), which
Sensors 2025, 25, 139 5 of 12

delivers advanced tracking data and analytics to model and assess player performance in
sports such as football, basketball, and American football.
These systems provide sports scientists and performance analysts with a comprehen-
sive view of individual and team performance, offering actionable insights for training and
competition [1,2,39]. By leveraging predictive analytics and unsupervised machine learning
techniques such as clustering and dimensionality reduction, these tools also allow sports
scientists to identify key contextual factors, such as opponent quality, tactical imbalances,
and match congestion [40,41]. This real-time analysis is crucial for developing adaptive
strategies that exploit opponents’ weaknesses. Beyond facilitating real-time analysis and
strategic adjustments, these AI tools also enhance training methodologies [42,43], enabling
coaches and analysts to perform scenario simulations by using reinforcement learning
models that predict the outcomes of various tactical adjustments. This facilitates more
dynamic decision-making, ensuring performance strategies remain flexible and data-driven
during high-stakes matches.

4.2. AI-Driven Talent Identification and Scouting

Traditional scouting methods have been enhanced by AI’s ability to process large
datasets, allowing scouting departments to evaluate a player’s potential more accu-
rately [44]. AI-driven platforms like TwelveGPT Scout (Twelve Football, London, United
Kingdom) integrate scout reports, performance metrics, and biometric data into compre-
hensive profiles, providing scouting departments with a more objective basis for decision-
making [2,45]. For instance, AI models can simulate various scenarios to predict a player’s
potential impact on team performance, allowing scouts to assess how a recruit might in-
tegrate into existing tactical frameworks [46,47]. This process gives coaches and scouts a
clearer picture of how new players will contribute to the team, enhancing the efficiency of
talent identification.

4.3. Real-Time Tactical Adjustments with AI Insights

One of the most transformative applications of AI is its ability to provide live tactical
adjustments during matches. By analyzing real-time data from player tracking systems, AI
tools offer suggestions for optimal strategies regarding player rotations, defensive align-
ments, and offensive plays [2,5,48,49]. Real-world examples, such as the Toronto Raptors’
use of a ghosting method to simulate defensive behaviors [50], and Liverpool FC’s develop-
ment of the TacticAI system in collaboration with Google DeepMind, demonstrate how AI
can model complex in-game scenarios to predict opponent behaviors and suggest effective
counterstrategies [39]. This AI-driven feedback allows coaches to make precise adjustments
that can directly impact match outcomes, particularly in high-stakes competitions where
every decision counts. For example, reinforcement learning algorithms can simulate the
impact of substitutions or formation changes in real time, providing coaches with data-
driven recommendations to optimize team performance under dynamic conditions. As AI
technology continues to evolve, its role in shaping strategic approaches will likely become
even more pivotal.

5. Monitoring Player Health

5.1. Monitoring Player Health and Off-Training Behavior
Players often engage in substantial physical activity during training, but off-training
periods may involve excessive sedentary behavior. Research has highlighted that players’
sedentary lifestyles during off-training periods can lead to detrimental sports and health
outcomes [51,52]. Despite this, many players and coaches falsely assume that intense train-
Sensors 2025, 25, 139 6 of 12

ing is sufficient to mitigate the negative impacts of sedentary behavior. This misconception
needs to be addressed to ensure optimized performance and overall health.
Intelligent wearable sensors provide advanced capabilities for monitoring and ad-
justing daily movement patterns outside of training [11,53]. Unlike traditional sensors
that merely record data, these AI-enabled sensors incorporate technologies such as ac-
celerometers, gyroscopes, and heart rate monitors, paired with AI algorithms, to analyze
and interpret data in real time. By leveraging machine learning models and time-series
analysis, these devices can assess not only physical activity but also pinpoint prolonged
periods of inactivity, offering precise data on a player’s daily routines. AI-based apps like
Wakeout app (Wakeout Inc., San Francisco, CA, USA), which offers quick movement breaks,
and Homecourt (NEX Team Inc., San Jose, CA, USA), which gamifies skill practice, use
behavioral reinforcement algorithms to personalize feedback and adapt recommendations
dynamically based on user habits and responses. Additionally, AI-powered virtual assis-
tants like Siri, Microsoft Copilot, or Google Gemini integrate natural language processing
to provide continuous, personalized guidance. These systems can track user input, deliver
motivational prompts, and offer real-time adjustments to activity goals, helping players
maintain healthy behaviors and avoid health declines. Research indicates that players
who actively monitor their daily movement outside of training can reduce their risk of
sedentary lifestyle-related issues, such as decreased cardiovascular fitness and increased
injury rates [54].

5.2. AI-Powered Sleep Quality Enhancement

Adequate sleep is crucial for elite players, directly impacting energy recovery, cognitive
function, and overall performance [55,56]. However, players often face challenges in
achieving the necessary sleep duration and quality due to intensive travel schedules, late-
night games, and lifestyle factors [57,58]. Poor sleep not only hampers physical performance
but also increases the risk of injuries and cognitive impairments, such as slower decision-
making and reduced tactical accuracy [55,56,59,60].
AI technologies significantly enhance the monitoring and optimization of sleep pat-
terns by leveraging wearable devices equipped with advanced biosensors. These wearables,
such as WHOOP (WHOOP Inc., Boston, MA, USA), track critical sleep-related biometrics
such as heart rate variability and sleep cycles. These tools provide personalized recommen-
dations for optimizing sleep and managing recovery. By analyzing extensive sleep data, AI
can detect subtle patterns and disturbances, offering individualized strategies to improve
both short-term recovery and long-term well-being [10].

5.3. Menstrual Cycle Management with AI

Managing the menstrual cycle is an often-overlooked aspect of optimizing female
players’ performance. Although research on the menstrual cycle’s effects on performance
parameters has produced mixed results [61,62], many female athletes report that their
cycle affects both training and performance [63,64]. Tailoring training programs to dif-
ferent phases of the cycle can improve performance and alleviate discomfort [65]. For
example, female players may face increased training strain and extended recovery periods
during specific phases, highlighting the need for adjusted training intensities and recovery
strategies [66,67].
AI offers innovative solutions for menstrual cycle management by predicting ovulation
dates and identifying risks linked to conditions such as Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) or
Luteal Phase Defect through the analysis of menstrual data [68]. Furthermore, AI-driven
tools can accurately classify menstrual phases using biometric data such as heart rate or
ECG signals, with accuracy rates exceeding 85% [69]. These predictive capacities enable
Sensors 2025, 25, 139 7 of 12

sports scientists to craft more precise and personalized training plans that align with a
player’s hormonal fluctuations, improving both physical outcomes and mental well-being.

6. Ethical Considerations in AI Integration in Sports Sciences

As AI becomes more integrated into sports science, several ethical concerns and
challenges arise, particularly related to data privacy and the potential for over-reliance
on technology. AI systems in sports often collect vast amounts of sensitive information,
including biometric data, physiological metrics, and personal details, raising concerns
about how these data are stored, shared, and used [11]. To mitigate these risks, sports
scientists must ensure that AI applications comply with data protection laws, like the
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe or other privacy frameworks [70].
Transparent communication with players about data collection practices and their benefits is
crucial to maintaining trust and ensuring ethical practices. Another concern is the possible
over-reliance on AI, which could diminish the role of human intuition and expertise in
decision-making. While AI tools provide valuable insights, they should complement
human judgment rather than replace it, particularly when dealing with the unpredictable
nature of sports.

7. Integrating AI-Focused Education in Sports Science Curriculums

The rise of AI in sports science demands that academic institutions adapt their cur-
ricula to equip the next generation of sports professionals with the necessary skills. This
includes providing comprehensive training in data analysis, machine learning, and the
ethical implications of AI technologies [71]. Future sports scientists must be adept at inter-
preting complex AI-generated data and transforming these insights into practical training
and recovery strategies. Additionally, students should learn data visualization techniques
and the use of dynamic interfaces to present complex data in a user-friendly format. By
doing so, they will be better equipped to collaborate with coaches and decision-makers,
ensuring that AI insights are actionable and easily interpretable.

8. Future Challenges and Opportunities

While AI offers tremendous benefits to sports science, fundamentally changing how
players train, perform, and manage their well-being, challenges remain. One of the key
obstacles is the unpredictability of sports, where AI models may struggle to account for
human physiological variability and complex team dynamics. AI systems must continue to
evolve to handle these complexities, combining large datasets with improved algorithms
that can better predict outcomes in highly variable conditions.
Interdisciplinary collaboration between sports scientists, data scientists, and AI engi-
neers is essential to developing AI tools tailored to the unique needs of sports. Successful
collaboration demands clear communication, shared goals, and mutual respect for each
discipline’s methods. Sports scientists must grasp AI fundamentals to interpret outputs
effectively, while AI engineers must understand the complexities of sports data, such as
variability in player performance and contextual factors. Without such collaboration, AI ap-
plications risk becoming technically sound but impractical or oversimplified. Establishing
robust frameworks for interdisciplinary teamwork is critical to ensure that AI innovations
are both scientifically robust and practically relevant.
Another significant challenge is the limited availability of open-source, peer-reviewed
scientific validation for many of the sensor technologies and AI applications currently in
use. While these tools are increasingly adopted in professional sports and show significant
promise, comprehensive validation studies confirming their reliability and accuracy are
often limited or absent. This gap highlights the need for future research to systematically
 invaluable. While AI systems can process vast amounts of data, they often struggle with
the unpredictable nature of sports, such as unexpected injuries, changes in team dynam-
ics, or psychological factors affecting performance. Therefore, sports scientists must strike
Sensors 2025, 25, 139 a balance between relying on AI for data-driven insights and applying their expertise 8 of to
12
make informed decisions. Viewing AI as a tool that augments human capabilities, rather
than replaces them, allows sports professionals to develop more holistic and adaptable
evaluate these technologies under controlled conditions to ensure their effectiveness and
strategies.
generalizability. Addressing this limitation is critical for fostering trust among stakeholders
and integrating these tools more seamlessly into evidence-based practices.
9. Conclusions
Despite the many advantages of AI, it is unlikely to replace human expertise in sports
AI is transforming sports science, empowering sports scientists with innovative tools
science. Human intuition, experience, and the ability to read situational context remain
to optimize training, enhance performance, and manage player health. While AI cannot
invaluable. While AI systems can process vast amounts of data, they often struggle with
fully replace human expertise, it acts as a complementary asset that enhances the decision-
the unpredictable nature of sports, such as unexpected injuries, changes in team dynamics,
making of sports scientists, ultimately improving player outcomes. To unlock AI’s full
or psychological factors affecting performance. Therefore, sports scientists must strike a
potential,
balance it is essential
between relyingtoon
employ
AI foritdata-driven
responsibly,insights
ensuring that
and it supports
applying theirhuman judg-
expertise to
ment rather than undermines it. By harnessing AI across the key dimensions
make informed decisions. Viewing AI as a tool that augments human capabilities, rather of sports
science,
than as illustrated
replaces in Figure
them, allows 1, sports
sports scientiststo
professionals can gain deeper
develop moreinsights
holistic into
and player and
adaptable
team performance.
strategies.
However, the integration of AI also presents challenges. Ethical considerations, par-
ticularly concerning data privacy, must be carefully addressed. AI should amplify human
9. Conclusions
intuition and expertise rather than automate decisions. As highlighted in Table 1, various
AI is transforming sports science, empowering sports scientists with innovative tools
practical applications demonstrate how AI can boost evidence-based decision-making, es-
to optimize training, enhance performance, and manage player health. While AI cannot
pecially in areas such as load optimization, injury prevention and return-to-play, sports
fully replace human expertise, it acts as a complementary asset that enhances the decision-
performance analysis, talent identification and scouting, off-training behavior, sleep qual-
making of sports scientists, ultimately improving player outcomes. To unlock AI’s full
ity enhancement, and menstrual cycle management.
potential, it is essential to employ it responsibly, ensuring that it supports human judgment
Considering these advancements, academic institutions and sports organizations
rather than undermines it. By harnessing AI across the key dimensions of sports science,
must evolve their educational programs to equip future sports professionals with the nec-
as illustrated in Figure 1, sports scientists can gain deeper insights into player and team
essary AI skills to navigate and excel in this rapidly advancing field.
performance.

Figure 1. Diagram
Figure 1. Diagram illustrating
illustrating key
key AI-driven
AI-driven dimensions
dimensions for
for sports
sports scientists.
scientists.

However, the integration of AI also presents challenges. Ethical considerations, partic-

ularly concerning data privacy, must be carefully addressed. AI should amplify human
intuition and expertise rather than automate decisions. As highlighted in Table 1, various
practical applications demonstrate how AI can boost evidence-based decision-making,
especially in areas such as load optimization, injury prevention and return-to-play, sports
performance analysis, talent identification and scouting, off-training behavior, sleep quality
enhancement, and menstrual cycle management.
Considering these advancements, academic institutions and sports organizations must
evolve their educational programs to equip future sports professionals with the necessary
AI skills to navigate and excel in this rapidly advancing field.
Sensors 2025, 25, 139 9 of 12

Table 1. AI applications in sports science: key dimensions and examples involving sports scientists.

Dimension Hypothetical Scenario Practical Example

An AI system tracks a central midfielder’s sprint and
The coaching staff of a professional football
acceleration profiles in real time. When the sports scientist
team needs to tailor each player’s training load
receives an alert from the system that the player is
according to their individual physical profile
Load Optimization approaching his workload limit, it notifies the coaches. The
and recovery requirements. This approach
training program may then be adjusted by decreasing the
aims to optimize performance throughout the
volume of high-intensity activities, effectively managing
training cycle.
the player’s load.
A basketball point guard recovering from a hamstring
The coaching staff of a professional basketball injury had a comprehensive profile established before the
team need to design a plan for a player’s injury using AI tools. This pre-injury data support his
Injury Prevention and Return return-to-play process. Their aim is to ensure a return-to-play strategy, with the AI system continuously
to Play safe and effective reintegration into training monitoring his performance metrics and comparing them
and competition while minimizing the risk to his baseline (i.e., pre-injury). Sports scientists use these
of re-injury. insights to guide the coaching staff in adjusting the player’s
training regimen.
A basketball team is underperforming during AI identifies that a key player is shooting poorly and
a game, and the coaching staff needs to quickly provides insights into the opponent’s defensive patterns.
understand and address the issues. The aim is The system recommends the best player to substitute in,
Sports Performance to use AI to analyze real-time data and based on their current and historical performance metrics.
historical performance to make immediate Additionally, the coach may use the AI’s insights to adjust
tactical adjustments and improve team the offensive strategy and team dynamics, targeting the
performance. opponent’s weaknesses more effectively.
An AI system analyzes performance metrics, playing style,
and biometric data of potential players and compares them
A football team needs to replace a forward
with those of the departing forward. The system identifies
who is leaving the club. The challenge is to use
Talent Identification and Scouting a candidate who closely matches the departing player’s
AI to identify and evaluate potential
profile. Sports scientists then collaborate with scouts to
new forwards.
conduct further evaluations and ensure the candidate’s
suitability aligns with the team’s strategy and needs.
AI monitors the player’s daily movement patterns and
A rugby player exhibits abnormal recovery delivers real-time feedback to adjust off-training activity
metrics (e.g., objective and/or subjective) recommendations. Sports scientists use these insights,
Off-training Behavior despite a standard training profile, potentially combined with AI-powered virtual assistants that provide
due to insufficient off-training physical activity continuous guidance and motivation, to ensure the player
or prolonged sedentary periods. maintains healthy behaviors. Ultimately, this approach
might optimize recovery.
Sports scientists employ advanced wearable devices to
monitor the player’s sleep patterns and disruptions linked
A professional basketball player is to travel and night games. AI analyzes the collected data to
experiencing sleep disturbances due to pinpoint sleep issues and generate actionable insights.
Sleep Quality frequent travel and late-night games. These Based on this information, tailored sleep strategies are
issues are affecting the player’s recovery and devised, including adjustments to travel schedules and
performance. personalized sleep recommendations. AI-powered tools
then offer real-time feedback and guidance, helping the
player optimize sleep quality.
Female players of a football team report AI helps to understand historical performance variations
variations in their physical performance across different menstrual phases, providing insights into
related to different phases of their menstrual how performance fluctuates. Based on these insights,
Menstrual Cycle Management
cycle. Sports scientists also detect fluctuations sports scientists can suggest adjustments in training
in training strain and intensity throughout programs to align with the player’s cycle phase, aiming to
these phases. optimize overall performance.

Author Contributions: Conceptualization, N.M. and J.S.; writing—original draft preparation, N.M.,
E.A., and D.C.; writing—review and editing, J.S., M.-Á.G., and C.L.P. All authors have read and
agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding: The authors received financial support for the research, authorship, and publication of
this article from the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), under project UIDB/04045/2020,
funded by National Funds.

Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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